Do not wish away the lonely moments, as they have the potential to be some of the sweetest moments you will ever experience. I feared loneliness, I hated feeling lonely, loneliness reminded me of how much I missed so many loved ones, loneliness made me want to flee, loneliness produced self-pity and sadness in me. Let’s face it, feeling lonely is flat out hard. And, the thought of being “excited” for lonely moments seemed impossible. However, God, by His grace, is teaching me that some of the greatest joy I will ever experience are in those exact moments I did everything to avoid – the lonely moments. It is in those moments where He is closer than ever before. It is in those moments that He renews my perspective. It is in those moments where He reveals more of Himself to me. It is in those moments where He proves to me that He is enough. It is in those moments that He pours out unending amounts of love and grace. It is in those moments that He teaches me that I am never truly alone, that He will sustain, He will provide, He does care, He will protect, and the best place I can be is with Him. The sweetness of lonely moments, where it is just me and the Lord, are now moments I can look to with increased excitement. Please notice, I did not write, “always look to with increased excitement,” because if I’m honest, far too often I still hate loneliness and chase after people or things of this world to fill that void and satisfy my soul. But by His grace, the Lord is changing my heart and affections, enabling me to see the sweetness and beauty found in loneliness. All that is required of us is drawing near to Him and trusting in the countless promises given to us throughout the Word.
And as a friend of mine gently reminded me many weeks ago, some of the greatest lessons He wants to teach us must be taught in isolation.
“…And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20
You make known to me the path of life, in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalms 16:11
fear not, I am with you; be not dismayed, I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
Andrea:
You are so “spot on” with your comments about loneliness. I have come to appreciate times of being physically alone as times for experiencing the presence of God and as such, they are usually not times when I feel “lonely.” At the same time, God has designed us for life in community. To be able to be content in His presence, both when I am with people and when alone, is part of what I aspire to in my movement – though the walk is sometimes uneven – toward maturity. (Philippians 4:12-13).
Continuing to pray – thanks for sharing with us how we can do that more effectively!
Eric
Andrea,
It is knowing that you would experience considerable loneliness in CA that has burdened my heart since you left.
I am thankful to know you are not just “getting through” these times but growing in them with a new perspective and maturity. Thanks for sharing lessons you are learning so that we can learn along with you.
Much love,
Mom
xoxoxoxoxox